N B C Trip to Frampton Marsh.

Wow

I secretly wish I had taken this shot, well I did... from a poster in reception sadly.

Hoping to see Hen Harrier,  Frampton is always a good possibility. Walking to the bank overlooking the salt marsh, Bob quickly got the crew onto a Ringtail Harrier a great starter for the day.
Battling with optics against a strong cold wind another brown Harrier appeared but this bird had morphed into a Marsh Harrier, still nice to see especially when I remember how rare they once were back in the early 80's

Merlin

A Merlin was seen dashing around looking for unsuspecting Mippits or the like over the marsh.

Lapwing Bob Gill

got a juicy one         Bob Gill

Flocks of Lapwing and Golden Plover seemed to be in the air constantly, being harassed by at least two Hungry marauding Peregrines.

Peregrine Falcon

Back on Terra-firma, Wigeon and Brents were everywhere

Brent Geese            Bob Gill

Drake wigeon

Wendy, Trish, Mark and Bob

I'm not sure what Mark is adjusting ?

The Need for Feed,             

Back to the car for food and a warm drink,    uummmmm lovely.

Goldfinch          Bob Gill

Afterward a walk around the reserve. 

Gold and Green finches hungrily defend the feeders, two Water Rail break cover in front of us.

A Curlew and a lone Stock Dove search for food,

 

At best I would say the weather was bracing, but non the less, we all very much enjoyed the day.

We have a home to go to, how wildlife manages in these cold conditions is beyond me, they seem so frail but contend with it they do.

Thanks again to Bob our taxi driver and for Trish braving the weather and putting up with the banter.

Time marches on and so we must fly.

Brent Goose